Training mostly on what he’s already good at

Next year’s racing schedule and program also fits the skate expert well.

– We have 15 km skate in the World Championship, where I have a medal chance – or even better if everything goes perfect. In addition, there are four 15-km skate races in the World Cup, as well as a 15 km skate in the Norwegian Championship.

After the retirement of Thomas Alsgaard, it has been lots of discussion regarding who would replace him as the anchorman on the Norwegian Relay Team. This is a role Ruud Hofstad could imagine himself in.
– I would like to ski more relay races, and would like to become part of the permanent team.

Because of these golden possibilities, both in individual races and in relay races, Tore is determined to become an ace in skating.

– I would rather be one of the very best in skating, rather than a medium good skier in both techniques.

During the 2003 World Championships in Val Di Fiemme, Tore won a silver medal in the pursuit event. Even though he does not writing off his chances in this even this coming year, he admits it may be more difficult to do as well in the 2005 Championship in Oberstorf.
– It was easier in 2003 to hang on for 10 km in the classical), but since it now has become 15 km, it is tougher for me technique

(Editor: The World Cup pursuit used to be 10 km classical followed by 10 km skate, but has now been changed to 15 km classical followed by 15 km skate).

Tore’s adjustments does not mean he he is putting the classical style on the shelf.

– I have not given up as a classical technique skier, or as a pursuit event contender. I have just directed more of my focus where I think I can do the best.

His increased skate training seems to work well – already in June he performed a personal best on his rollerski time-trial, on a course he annually does several times per year.